By Sachit Subba • INTERNATIONAL CRICKET • Apr 13, 2025 13:38 PM • 83 views
Nepal narrowly missed out on clinching the four-nation Twenty20 International series title, falling to Kuwait by just three runs in a nail-biting final at Sunday's Mission Road Ground in Hong Kong.
In a high-stakes contest that went down to the wire, Kuwait posted 174 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs after being sent into bat. In response, Nepal were bowled out for 171 in 19.3 overs, suffering their first-ever T20I defeat to Kuwait.
Despite a valiant late effort, Nepal's run chase faltered under pressure. Bashir Ahmed played a sensational innings, smashing 80 off just 43 deliveries, laced with eight boundaries and four towering sixes. His knock kept Nepal in the hunt, especially during a crucial 72-run ninth-wicket stand with Nandan Yadav, who contributed a gritty 37. Asif Sheikh added 21 runs at the top of the order but lacked support from the middle.
Kuwait's bowling unit held its nerve at key moments. Anudeep Chenthamara led the attack with 3 wickets, while Navinraj Rajendran and Yasin Patel chipped in with 2 each. Captain Mohammad Aslam and Mohammad Shafiq also raised a wicket to ensure Kuwait's narrow victory.
Earlier, Kuwait built a competitive total on the back of an explosive 63 from Ravija Sandaruwan. The opener struck six fours and four sixes in his 36-ball stay. He was ably supported by Clinton Anto (26), Usman Patel (23), and Meet Bhavsar (16), while skipper Aslam added a crucial unbeaten 13 late in the innings. Sandaruwan and Patel's 56-run third-wicket partnership laid the platform for a strong finish.
Nepal's bowlers had their moments, with Nandan Yadav and Sompal Kami taking two wickets apiece, while Karan KC and Kushal Bhurtel claimed one each.
While Nepal showcased grit and resilience, especially in the latter stages of the innings, the heartbreaking loss will sting — especially after a dominant performance against Kuwait earlier in the tournament. Still, the series served as a valuable platform for the side ahead of upcoming international assignments.
